December 27, Colombo (LNW): The National Zoological Gardens Department has reported a remarkable surge in its income, with a 150 per cent increase compared to the previous year, according to Director General Ranjana Marasinghe.
As of December 23, 2024, the department has generated Rs. 1.42 billion in revenue, with expectations to reach Rs. 2 billion by the close of the year.
Marasinghe revealed that the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage has been the primary contributor to this impressive growth, accounting for 61.4 per cent of the total revenue, amounting to Rs. 876 million.
This popular attraction continues to draw both local and international visitors, bolstering the overall income of the zoological parks.
In addition to Pinnawala, the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens has contributed 22 per cent of the revenue, while the Ridiyagama Safari Park and the Pinnawala Open Zoo have provided 9 per cent and 7.5 per cent, respectively.
These figures highlight the growing appeal of Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservation and tourism sector, with a diverse range of parks and sanctuaries attracting a steady flow of visitors.
The highest revenue months were recorded in January, February, March, April, and August, with January standing out as the most profitable month of the year.
The department remains optimistic about sustaining this upward trend in the coming months.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): Amidst ongoing discussions about credit for the country’s debt restructuring efforts, Labour Minister Prof. Anil Jayantha Fernando addressed the issue at a press conference yesterday (26), offering a detailed explanation of the government’s involvement in the process.
The fundamental agreements for restructuring 99 per cent of Sri Lanka’s external debts were already in place during the previous administration, and the current government’s role has been limited to restructuring just one percent, which amounts to approximately US$ 300 million, according to Fernando.
Speaking at the President’s Media Centre, Fernando elaborated on the debt restructuring negotiations, highlighting that the current government focused solely on debts owed to other official creditors, such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan.
He made it clear that these amounted to a relatively small portion of the total external debt burden.
“The restructuring of bilateral debt is managed by the Official Creditor Committee (OCC), which is co-chaired by France, India, and Japan. This committee represents 17 countries, including China Exim Bank and China Development Bank, as well as other official creditors and commercial lenders. By June 2024, the OCC had reached agreements on the terms and conditions for restructuring, and loans from China Exim Bank were already restructured by October 2023, following the agreed framework, ensuring comparable treatment across all creditors,” the Minister explained.
On the topic of International Sovereign Bonds (ISB), Fernando clarified that the previous government had made an agreement in principle to restructure these bonds on September 19, 2024, just days before the Presidential election.
The current administration continued the process and successfully concluded the restructuring on December 20, 2024.
“ISBs, which total US$ 14.2 billion, including overdue interest of US$ 1.7 billion, were restructured with the cooperation of the Ad Hoc Group (AHG) and a local banking consortium. The government’s swift and decisive actions have been crucial in stabilising the economy, and this has been recognised by external rating agencies, which have upgraded Sri Lanka’s credit ratings. This success was only possible through the government’s strategic focus and timely implementation of stabilisation measures,” he added.
Fernando further remarked that while there had been significant debate about the notion of a country’s bankruptcy, the economic crisis was, in fact, a consequence of policies adopted by previous governments.
He pointed to the unilateral suspension of external debt payments in April 2022 as the key moment that led to the country’s financial turmoil.
“The current government has worked hard to lay the foundations for financial stability, and we are confident that by the end of 2025, we will see positive changes both in the economy and in the lives of the people,” Fernando emphaised.
He assured that the government is fully committed to guiding the nation towards a path of growth and prosperity, despite the challenges it faces.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Digital Economy has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at accelerating the adoption of digital payment systems across Sri Lanka.
This new programme seeks to shift away from traditional cash transactions in favour of more efficient, secure, and transparent digital methods.
Deputy Minister Eranga Weeraratne highlighted the significant economic burden of cash transactions, noting that they account for approximately 1.5 per cent of the country’s annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He also pointed out that the reliance on cash not only hinders economic efficiency but also creates opportunities for fraud and corruption, exacerbating problems with payment processing and transparency.
Under the new scheme, all payments to government institutions are set to be transitioned to digital platforms.
To facilitate this, the Ministry has introduced the GovPay application, which is already integrated with 16 government entities.
Weeraratne confirmed that additional government departments and services are scheduled to join the system in January 2025, with the aim of fully digitising all government payments in the near future.
The move to digital payments is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and accountability of public sector transactions, eliminating the manual processing of payments and reducing the potential for errors and corruption.
Furthermore, the switch to digital platforms will improve convenience for the public, offering faster and more secure payment options for a wide range of government services.
Deputy Minister Weeraratne emphasised that this digital shift would not only streamline administrative processes but also foster a more transparent and efficient governance structure, benefiting both citizens and the wider economy.
The government is optimistic that the initiative will encourage greater financial inclusion, reduce the operational costs associated with handling cash, and contribute to the modernisation of Sri Lanka’s economy.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): Beneficiaries of the Aswesuma social welfare scheme can begin receiving their outstanding payments from today, directly through their bank accounts, the Welfare Benefits Board (WBB) announced.
This initiative follows efforts to ensure the timely disbursement of overdue funds to those eligible under the first phase of the scheme.
According to Jayantha Wijeratne, Chairman of the Welfare Benefits Board, a total of 212,423 qualifying families will benefit from the transfer of these outstanding payments.
Over Rs. 1.3 billion has been allocated for the pending disbursements, with the WBB facilitating the deposit of the funds into the designated bank accounts of the recipients.
This move is expected to provide financial relief to the families awaiting their payments under the Aswesuma scheme, which aims to improve the welfare of vulnerable households across Sri Lanka.
The WBB has reassured recipients that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure the smooth and efficient transfer of funds.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): Several prominent Sri Lankan political leaders have expressed their heartfelt condolences following the death of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away yesterday at the age of 92.
The tributes reflect the deep respect and admiration Singh commanded across South Asia, with his legacy as an economist and leader continuing to resonate.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa took to social media platform ‘X’ to remember Singh as a visionary economist and a pivotal figure in India’s economic transformation. Rajapaksa described Singh as the “architect of India’s economic liberalisation,” noting that his far-reaching contributions helped to shape a new and prosperous era for India.
Deeply saddened by the passing of former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. A visionary economist and the architect of India’s economic liberalization, his contributions shaped a new era for India. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of India. pic.twitter.com/5n1DtCMyL9
He extended his deepest sympathies to Singh’s family and the people of India, acknowledging the loss of a leader who had a profound impact on the region’s economic landscape.
Similarly, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa shared his sorrow on ‘X,’ emphasising that Dr. Singh’s economic reforms had not only transformed India but also inspired neighbouring countries.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, a visionary leader whose economic reforms transformed India and inspired the region. His commitment to progress and integrity will continue to inspire us. Our thoughts are with his family and the people of India during this…
Premadasa highlighted Singh’s unwavering commitment to progress and integrity, qualities that would continue to inspire generations to come. He offered his condolences to Singh’s family and to India, sending thoughts of solidarity during this moment of grief.
M.A. Sumanthiran, former Member of Parliament for the Tamil National Alliance, also paid tribute to Singh, remembering him as “a gentleman par excellence.” Sumanthiran recalled Singh’s sincere efforts towards addressing the Tamil National Question in Sri Lanka, noting that Singh’s diplomatic endeavours and leadership left a lasting impression on Sri Lankan politics.
Our most sincere condolences to the people of India on the demise of their former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. A gentleman par excellence, the architect of modern India’s economic resurgence, worked sincerely to solve the Tamil National Question in Sri Lanka. pic.twitter.com/XqbtbIPvEr
In his message, Sumanthiran offered his sincere condolences to the people of India, acknowledging Singh’s role in modernising India’s economy while also working towards regional stability.
Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics. Admitted to the emergency department of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Singh passed away despite efforts to revive him.
Singh served as Prime Minister of India for a historic 3,656 days, from May 22, 2004, to May 26, 2014. During his tenure at the helm of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA), he became the third-longest serving Prime Minister in Indian history, surpassed only by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): The 2024 edition of the joint naval exercise between India and Sri Lanka, SLINEX 24, took place from December 17 to 20 in the coastal city of Visakhapatnam, organised under the leadership of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Naval Command.
This year’s exercise unfolded in two key stages: the Harbour Phase, which ran from December 17 to 18, and the Sea Phase, held from December 19 to 20.
The Harbour Phase provided an opportunity for personnel from both navies to engage in a range of professional exchanges, fostering camaraderie through collaborative interactions.
The Indian Navy’s contribution included INS Sumitra from its Eastern Fleet, alongside a Special Forces contingent, while Sri Lanka was represented by the Offshore Patrol Vessel, SLNS Sayura, and its own Special Forces team.
The inaugural ceremony on December 17 marked the official commencement of the Harbour Phase, setting the tone for a series of cooperative engagements between the two nations.
As the exercise transitioned to the Sea Phase, from December 19, both countries’ Special Forces teams participated in joint exercises at sea, sharpening their operational capabilities.
Activities in this phase included live gun firing drills, communication exercises, seamanship and navigation evolutions, as well as helicopter operations, which tested the naval personnel’s skills in a variety of challenging maritime scenarios.
SLINEX, which was first initiated in 2005, has grown into a crucial platform for strengthening the strategic maritime ties between India and Sri Lanka.
This year’s exercise demonstrated the deepening collaboration between the two nations, enhancing mutual understanding and operational readiness.
The exercise has also reinforced the importance of a secure and rules-based maritime environment, in line with India’s broader vision of “Security And Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR).
December 27, World (LNW): Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, has passed away at the age of 92.
He was admitted to the emergency unit at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, where he breathed his last.
Hospital officials confirmed the news of his death.
Singh, who had been receiving intensive care, was given CPR in an attempt to revive him, but the efforts were unsuccessful, according to sources close to the situation.
The nation mourns the loss of a respected statesman whose contributions to Indian politics and economics left an indelible mark.
Born on September 26, 1932 in Gah, a village in the then-West Punjab (now part of Pakistan), Singh’s life was a reflection of dedication to public service, academic excellence, and exemplary leadership.
After completing his undergraduate studies, he went on to earn a Master’s degree in Economics from Panjab University in Chandigarh. His academic journey culminated in a doctorate from the University of Oxford, where he honed his deep understanding of economic policy.
Singh served as Prime Minister of India from May 22, 2004, to May 26, 2014, leading the country through a period of significant economic and political change. Under his leadership, India saw impressive growth, though his tenure was also marked by challenges and controversy.
As the head of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA), he steered the country for over 3,650 days, becoming the third-longest serving Prime Minister in India’s history, surpassed only by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
Throughout his career, Singh earned a reputation for his calm and measured approach to governance, as well as his steadfast commitment to India’s economic reforms.
His legacy will be remembered for his significant role in liberalising India’s economy in the 1990s while serving as Finance Minister, which paved the way for a new era of growth and global integration.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): A progress review meeting for the committee responsible for addressing the welfare and benefits of the families of fallen and disabled war veterans was convened yesterday at the office of the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General (Retd.) Aruna Jayasekara.
The primary focus of the meeting was to assess the ongoing challenges faced by the families of war veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as those living with disabilities due to their service.
The committee acknowledged the importance of recognising the persistent and evolving needs of these families, ensuring that their sacrifices are not overlooked.
During the session, there was a consensus on the need for a more structured and methodical approach to tackle these longstanding issues.
The committee stressed the urgency of finding practical and immediate solutions to unmet needs, ensuring that no family is left behind in the process.
It was also underscored that the committee’s work must yield meaningful and sustainable results, with a focus on long-term welfare improvements.
The committee has been tasked with implementing a comprehensive plan that is both collaborative and efficient, working alongside various stakeholders to prioritise the well-being of the veterans and their families.
This includes considering financial, healthcare, and social support, with the goal of offering tangible benefits to those who have sacrificed so much for the nation.
In a previous meeting, the Deputy Minister of Defence appointed the Additional Secretary of Defence from the Ministry of Defence to chair the committee, reinforcing the strategic direction of the initiative.
The committee is composed of senior officials, including the Chairman of the Ranaviru Seva Authority (RSA), directors from the three branches of the armed forces, and other key personnel, all working in unison to address these critical issues.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): The long-awaited public consultations regarding the proposed revision of electricity tariffs will begin today (27), with the first oral session set to take place in Kandy, Central Province, at the District Secretariat.
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) recently presented its proposal to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) for a revision of the electricity tariffs, suggesting that the current rates would remain unchanged for the next six months.
The proposal implies that no adjustments will be made to the existing tariffs in the near future.
However, in response, the PUCSL has presented an alternative recommendation, suggesting a potential reduction in the tariffs by anywhere between 10 per cent to 20 per cent.
To ensure public input on this matter, the PUCSL initiated a public consultation process starting on December 17, encouraging individuals to submit their views in writing. The oral sessions, which begin today, are scheduled to run until 10th January. These consultations are aimed at gathering a wide range of public opinions on the proposed changes.
Members of the public wishing to participate in the oral sessions can register by calling the PUCSL’s hotline at 0772 943 193.
This provides an opportunity for individuals to voice their concerns or support regarding the tariff revisions, and the feedback will be taken into account during the decision-making process.
Jayanath Herath, the Director of Corporate Communications at the PUCSL, has stated that the final report, which will incorporate both the written submissions and oral feedback, is expected to be delivered by January 17, 2025.
This report will outline the PUCSL’s final recommendations on the electricity tariff adjustment.
December 27, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers may occur in Northern, North-central, Eastern provinces and in Matale district, and showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern North-western and Uva provinces and in Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts during the evening or night, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (27).
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern and Uva provinces during the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Several spells of light showers will occur in the sea areas extending from Mannar to Batticaloa via Kankasanthurai and Trincomalee. Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in the other sea areas around the island during the evening or night.
Winds:
Winds will be North- easterly in the sea areas around the island and speed will be (20-30) kmph. Wind speed can increase up to 40 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Trincomalee via Kankasanthurai.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Trincomalee via Kankasanthurai may be fairly rough at times. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
